The Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival is one of the must-see events that has Brussels moving at more than 24 frames per second. BIFFF reigns supreme over genre cinema. From fantasy, horror and science fiction to thrillers and dark comedies, the festival's programme is varied, rich and sometimes kitschy, but always surprising and exciting. The BIFFF also offers a unique atmosphere during screenings, and cult off-events such as its make-up competition and bloody Vampire Ball.

If you prefer the magical world of animation, head to Anima. Shorts and features, films for children and adults, the Brussels International Animation Film Festival explores every facet of animation, from the classics to the most daring creations. Internationally recognised, it qualifies for the Oscars: its Grand Prize for the best short film is eligible for a nomination at the Academy Awards.

Finally, for independent, committed and daring cinema, Pink Screens is a must. Dedicated to LGBTQIA+ themes, this autumn event explores identities and narratives through a prism that is sensitive, militant and often offbeat. Despite its success, the festival has managed to preserve its alternative soul, supported by the Genres d'à Côté association and Cinéma Nova. Every year, the festival closes on a high note with the unmissable Pink Night, where you can dance until the end credits roll.

Several Brussels festivals use film to encourage reflection and commitment. The Festival du Film Scientifique screens works that make science accessible and encourage reflection on its implications for society. The Festival des Libertés uses art and debate. It examines the state of human rights and fundamental freedoms through investigative film-making that transcends borders and cultures. Millenium Festival presents international documentaries that deal with sustainable development targets, taking an artistic look at global issues. The Brussels Art Film Festival (or BAFF, for short) showcases the best documentaries on artistic creation, covering disciplines as varied as painting, architecture, dance, music and many others, presenting a unique perspective on the world of art. The Festival AlimenTerre raises awareness of the issues of sustainable agriculture and food justice through films and discussions. Last but not least, En ville! showcases documentaries by exploring our territories and their imaginary worlds. It offers competitions, special screenings, debates, masterclasses and writing grants to support new projects.

Thanks to Filem’On, the very young have their very own festival, with a programme of animated, fiction and documentary films, accompanied by workshops and meetings to awaken their curiosity. This international event is a great way to discover film from an early age. In Brussels, two festivals put women in the spotlight.

Brussels International Women’s Film Festival is a celebration of women's cinema, offering a platform for female directors through a selection of short and feature-length films, as well as strong, committed documentaries. By showcasing innovative and subversive works, this event aims to transform perceptions and promote diversity in the film industry. It's a chance to forget the omnipresence of male gaze. More militant, Elles s’engagent offers three evenings of daring screenings that focus on women's commitment to public life - from politics to humanitarianism to civic action. Each screening, followed by a debate led by experts, provides a genuine platform for rethinking and subverting established norms.